[fballjunky]

I give Covcath a lot of credit for the way they played. Lots of enthusiasm and never quit attitude in the 2nd half. However, anyone who was at the game, and knows Highlands football could see that the play calling was very peculiar to say the least. Defensively the stragegy was not what I expected.

Highlands was on the verge of blowing the game open but didn't. A few turnovers and penalties later we had a game. I sensed that Highlands was never worried until the last 3 and out. It was almost as if Coach Mueller was giddy that he was in a close game.

If they play again, which I'm hoping, I would expect another beatdown like we've come to expect over the years.

The reality is people are not used to the Birds making key mistakes. They had 3 fumbles, but I would argue that CovCath was a huge reason for those errors. They were obviously "going for the ball". It was conscious effort by the Colonels to strip the ball from the Bluebirds.

Let's also remember that the Colonels had 3 interceptions, 2 of which were in the Red Zone. Now a big reason for those INT's especially the last one, was the play of Highlands defense.

I would agree if both teams play their best game, Highlands would win by 10 - 17 points. However, if Highlands has another sub-par game, and CovCath can keep the TO's to 1, I think you will be looking at new 5A state champ. Probably not CovCAth because I think they are too inconsistent to make the run you need in the playoff's.